Cells Flashcards
Plasma Membrane
The cells flexible outer surface.
Cytoplasm
All cellular contents between the plasma membrane and the nucleus.
Cytosol
The fluid portion of cytoplasm. Also known as ICF (intracellular fluid).
Organelles
Little organs. Each organelle has a characteristic shape and specific functions.
Nucleus
A large organelle that houses most of a cell’s DNA.
Chromosome
A single molecule of DNA associated with several proteins.
Genes
Hereditary units that control most aspects of cellular structure and function.
Phospholipid
Structural framework of the plasma membrane. Two back-to-back layers of fat molecules that contain phosphorous. Head hydrophilic, tail hydrophobic.
Glycocalyx
A sugary coat formed by glycolipids and glycoproteins. Acts like a molecular signature.
Diffusion
A passive process in which the random mixing of particles in a solution occurs because of the particles kinetic energy.
Facilitated Diffusion
A passive process where an integral membrane protein assists a specific substance across the membrane.
Osmosis
A type of diffusion in which there is net movement of a solvent through a selectively permeable membrane.
Active Transport
An active transport where energy is required for carrier proteins to move solutes across the membrane.
Vesicle
A small, spherical sac organelle that transports substances from one structure to another within cells.
Endocytosis
An active process in which materials in a vesicle formed from the plasma membrane move INTO a cell.
Exocytosis
An active process in which materials in a vesicle formed by the plasma membrane move OUT of a cell.
Cytoskeleton
A network of protein filaments throughout the cytosol that contribute to the cells structure. Three types: microfilaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules.